A lifetime of service: 95-year-old retired nurse reflects on a remarkable career

Robin Muchetu, Health and Gender Editor

MRS Ellen Vina Moyo, a trailblazing nurse and the first black matron at Mpilo Central Hospital, celebrated her 95th birthday last week, marking over six decades of dedicated service in the healthcare sector.

Her extraordinary journey is a testament to passion, perseverance and unwavering Christian values that guided her through a pioneering career in medicine and nursing.

Last Thursday, family, friends and healthcare colleagues gathered to honour her milestone, but her story extends far beyond the festivities.

For 35 years, Mrs Moyo tirelessly worked within the corridors of Mpilo Hospital, saving lives, delivering new ones and witnessing both the triumphs and tragedies inherent in medical care.

 

The remaining 11 years of her career were devoted to caring for the elderly in Bulawayo’s geriatric homes, embodying compassion until her retirement.

A Sunday News crew visited Mrs Moyo at her home in Paddonhurst, the morning after her birthday. Dressed in her nightwear, slippers and a cozy hat, she exuded warmth and vitality.

“Let me change into something nicer for the pictures,” she said with a cheerful laugh, then gracefully returned with a fresh outfit, supporting herself with her walking stick.

Born in 1931 in the Ntabazinduna Tribal Trust Lands, Mrs Moyo’s journey into healthcare began early. “I was born to Makhulumo Mpofu and Esther Donsa,” she recounted.

She attended Libeni Primary School for Sub A and B before progressing to Ngwenya Mission School, now known as John Tallach High School, where she completed her primary education.

Due to the absence of secondary schools during her youth, she was sent to South Africa to pursue further studies.

“My ambitious mother sent me to a college near Pretoria, where I completed my Junior Certificate and later enrolled in nursing,” she explained.

Her motivation was inspired by a village girl who had helped deliver babies during holidays, instilling in her a desire to serve as a nurse.

“I refused my father’s wish for me to become a dressmaker and instead pursued my dream,” Mrs Moyo said.

She trained at Frere Hospital in East London from 1952 to 1955, earning her general nursing qualification.

Upon returning to Zimbabwe, she began her career at Bulawayo Memorial Hospital, which later became Mpilo.

“This was before Mpilo was officially opened, it was under construction and I was among the first black nurses to work there,” she recalled.

In 1958, when Mpilo Central Hospital was inaugurated, she was transferred there, as were two other South African-trained nurses.

Mrs Moyo’s career coincided with the hospital’s development into a training centre, making her a pioneer in African nursing education.

“This was the beginning of formal training for African nurses in Zimbabwe,” she said.
Her rise to become Mpilo’s first black matron in 1977 was driven by hard work and integrity, both deeply rooted in her Christian faith.

“I worked in every ward and department, striving to give my best. I believe my passion and dedication impressed many, including my colleagues,” she said proudly.
She emphasised that her motivation stemmed from a desire to uphold high standards of nursing care.

“Training nurses to be competent and compassionate was my goal. Seeing my trainees excel abroad brought me immense joy,” she added.

Some of her mentees have gone on to earn international recognition, honouring her contributions.
Despite working in a predominantly white environment during apartheid-era Zimbabwe, Mrs Moyo faced scrutiny but remained resilient.

“Nursing is a calling. When you love what you do and act with wisdom, you stand out. I was honoured to serve in that capacity,” she said.

Her experiences included poignant moments, such as caring for terminally ill patients.
“I visited a young man with cancer of the knee and I told him that God’s forgiveness was essential. The next morning, he passed away. Nursing is about caring for both the body and the spirit,” she reflected.

Even after retiring at 60, Mrs Moyo continued to serve at Ekuphumuleni Geriatric Home and Edith Duly Nursing Home for another 11 years, driven by her love for nursing and compassion for the elderly.

“Watching them pass peacefully was a privilege. I always believed in offering hope and comfort,” she shared.

A devout member of the Apostolic Faith Mission of Africa, Mrs Moyo is an only child who lost her husband in 1976. She has two children — her son, who died at 36, and her daughter, who cares for her now — and three grandchildren. Her family home in Barbourfields remains her sanctuary, though she resides with her daughter due to health reasons.

“I feel blessed to have poured my heart into my work and to have witnessed the positive impact of caring for others,” she concluded.

Yesterday, hundreds gathered at the Amphitheatre in Bulawayo to celebrate her 95th birthday. Mrs Linda Moyo, Chairperson of the Bulawayo Retired Nurses Fellowship, praised her resilience.

“Mrs Moyo is a true icon. Even now, she remains independent and active, inspiring us all,” she said.
She said Mrs Moyo’s life exemplifies the profound impact of dedication, faith and service adding that her story continues to inspire countless healthcare professionals and reminds them of the vital role nurses play in society’s well-being.